The Kidoozie Press ‘n Zoom Fire Engine has wheels that spin, and moves forward easily with a simple press on the fireman’s head. The ladder also moves so that the fire fighter can get it into place for fire fighting.   Our tester loved the realistic construction of the toy and how it sparks kids’ imagination. It is suitable as a snow toy or a sand toy perfect for the beach or a backyard sandbox.

Mobility

For young kids, you’ll want to skip over the true figurines, or toy cars that don’t move. Toys with functional wheels that easily move around are much more engaging and appropriate for small children. That said, there are different types of functional toy cars. Some only move by force of your hand, some have pull systems, others crank and go, and still others have battery-operated motors. If you want the toy to travel further without much energy, opt for one of the latter options.

Material

Toy cars typically come in one of two materials—plastic or metal. Plastic toy cars aren’t quite as heavy and are better suited for younger children. As kids get older, they’ll be more capable of handling heavier metal cars, including popular items like Hot Wheels.

Because toy cars come in a range of materials and come in varying degrees of intricacy, it’s important to evaluate all potential toys for age-appropriateness. Check the manufacturer’s recommended age, a great indication as to whether the item is suitable for your child. In general, when shopping for smaller babies and toddlers, avoid small, intricate cars made of tough materials like metal. For older toddlers and kids, look for more engaging cars, like battery-operated motors or handheld remote controls.

Why Trust the Spruce?

KJ Callihan writes for The Spruce and has done gift and shopping guides for several other sites. She enjoys interviewing experts on relevant topics, and searching for hours for the perfect gifts for everyone on her list. Julie Evans is a writer and editor who has written for USA Today, Realtor.com, Brit + Co, and SheKnows, among others.